Motorsport
“Brackley has been the home of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team ever since the three-pointed star returned to Formula 1 with its own works team in 2010. Our performance comes from our people, and West Northamptonshire attracts some of the most highly-skilled engineers and technicians in the world – many of whom are employed in our team. We are proud to be based in such an innovative and cutting-edge environment.”
Rob Thomas, Chief Operating Officer
Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team
West Northants has a rich history intertwined with the automotive and motorsport industries which has carried on into present day where it holds a reputation as being the home of innovative technology. This sector is likely to include advanced manufacturers of high end vehicles as well as vehicle parts and components, while also incorporating R&D in the motor sector
The motorsport and automotive sector in West Northants is a significant economic powerhouse. The region is part of the larger “®Motorsport Valley,”. This super cluster is valued at approximately £6 billion and includes a wide range of automotive, motorsport, and advanced manufacturing companies like Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, Aston Martin Formula One Team, and Cosworth. These global innovators drive advancements in powertrains, chassis, and advanced engineering, creating opportunities for future growth in high-value manufacturing and technology.
®Motorsport Valley is a registered trademark of the Motorsport Industry Association and so, owned by the industry
Silverstone Circuit, is one of the most iconic motorsport venues in the world. It hosted the first Formula 1 World Championship race in 1950 and continues to be a central hub for motorsport events. It attracts skilled professionals, high-tech businesses, and international visitors, offering opportunities to benefit the local economy and the wider visitor economy.
The presence of Silverstone Circuit has fostered a thriving motorsport engineering sector. Silverstone itself is home to 80 high technology and advanced manufacturing companies, testing facilities for materials and vehicles and the iconic F1 Circuit.
Silverstone Museum also plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of British motorsport. It offers an immersive experience that brings to life over 70 years of racing history. Through interactive exhibits, rare memorabilia, and behind-the-scenes insights, the museum connects visitors with the stories of legendary drivers, iconic cars, and the evolution of motorsport engineering.
The museum also serves as an educational hub, inspiring future generations of engineers, designers, and motorsport enthusiasts.
Cosworth and MAHLE Powertrain are key contributors to West Northants’ motorsport excellence. Cosworth delivers high-performance powertrain and electronics solutions to elite racing teams, while MAHLE Powertrain focuses on advanced propulsion systems, including efficient engines and electrified technologies. Together, they highlight the region’s strength in cutting-edge automotive innovation.
The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team, based in Brackley is a cornerstone of the region’s motorsport sector. The site spans 60,000 square meters and includes world-class facilities for the design, development, manufacturing, assembly, and operation of championship-winning Formula One cars. Read more here.
West Northants has the ideal infrastructure in place to support innovation and business growth in the motorsport sector. Get in touch to discuss your business requirements.
Investment sectors
West Northants' economic growth and successes are driven by its diverse range of industries. Discover more about our key specialisms below.